Since 1997 Worcester County GOLD, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has had the honor of providing emergency financial aid and items to meet basic needs for Worcester County residents living in poverty and low-income circumstances. GOLD's Emergency Services Program provides housing and utility assistance, food, and items to meet basic needs for children and vulnerable adults. GOLD's VAULT (Vast Amounts of Useful Little Things) is a storage area in our office that houses basic needs items for easy access for our community partners. The VAULT has diapers, wipes, baby lotion, formula, clothing for infants, children, and adults, and emergency food and hygiene bags. GOLD also operates a number of special programs to address other community needs: Summer Activities for At-Risk Youth - GOLD provided $40,000 in scholarships to summer camps for children who would otherwise not have the opportunity. School Supplies for Students Program - provided 414 children with backpacks filled with grade-appropriate school supplies. This program provides the tools required for children to be academically successful with the ability to blend in with their peers. Thanksgiving Turkey Meals - With a donation from the Worcester County Bar Association, GOLD provided 295 families with a frozen turkey and bag of sides. Helping Hands for the Holidays - In 2023, with assistance from local businesses, organizations, and individuals, GOLD provided holiday gifts for over 500 children. All requests for assistance are submitted by agents employed with GOLD's fourteen community partners. These caseworkers submit referrals for GOLD's programs on behalf of their clients.